Long Island Rail Road: 1925-1975 – A Sequel
Revisiting the Long Island Rail Road: 1925-1975
by
David Keller and Steven Lynch
p2, #1
The crew of G5s (4-6-0) #26 have just picked up their engine at Morris Park Shops and are preparing to leave to pick up their train, perhaps at the Richmond Hill Storage Yard, located on the other side of the Montauk branch embankment seen in this photo looking north around 1938. They have stopped at Dunton tower to receive permission from the block operator to proceed. The engine and crew will access the storage yard via concrete tunnels located in the embankment visible behind the locomotive. Those tunnel portals are located behind the tower and locomotive (H. Forsythe Collection – David Keller archive)
p3 – Title Page
p4 – Dedication
This book is dedicated to all the railroad veterans, past and present, who, through their hard work, dedication and long hours, helped make the Long Island Rail Road great. David Keller
This book is dedicated to my mother and my wife, for their encouragement
and caring and always being there throughout my life to light the way.
Steven Lynch
p5 - TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Chapter 1: Electrified Service p. 11
Chapter 2: Feeding the Firebox p. 29
Chapter 3: Our Diesel Heritage p. 45
Chapter 4: The Freight Business p. 61
Chapter 5: Passenger Service p. 77
Chapter 6: Morris Park Shops p. 93
Chapter 7: Depots and Towers Along the Right of Way p. 113
p6 - Acknowledgements
I would like to thank all the terrific people who were so impressed with our first book, they told me they expected to see a second one. Thanks also goes to three old friends: Art Huneke for his invaluable tower data, Vincent Seyfried for his also invaluable station and roster data as well as the dates of first-year electrification and Ron Zinn for his detailed Morris Park Shops data and for reviewing chapter 6 for any errors. Credit goes to the late Robert Emery for his outstanding, hand-drawn and highly detailed system maps of the LIRR, Morris Park Shops in particular. As always, I wish to acknowledge the wonderful photography of George E. Votava, William Lichtenstern, Jeff Winslow, W. J. Edwards, George G. Ayling, James V. Osborne and Jules P. Krzenski. Special thanks goes to the generosity of my friend Edward Hermanns. Finally, a special thank-you goes to my wife Susan, who has always supported me in my life’s interest during our past 25 years together. David Keller
I would like to thank all those that sent words of encouragement on the
first book and pushed the implementation of the second volume. A special thanks goes out to my friend, mentor and co-author Dave Keller. Without his archives none of this would have been possible. Steven Lynch
p7 – Introduction
The Long Island Rail Road this year (2005) celebrates its 100th anniversary of electrification as a means of moving both freight and passenger traffic on the nation’s largest and oldest commuter railroad. 0ver 700 trains daily with ridership in excess of 250,000 make the trip into New York City's Pennsylvania Station; all of which is made possible via the use of third rail electrified service.
As before, most of the images presented have never before been published and great care has been taken to provide high quality images with historical background information within the captions to provide the reader with a greater insight into the operations of the LIRR.
To that end, we start with:
Chapter 1: Electrified Service celebrates the rich heritage of electrification inherited from its parent the Pennsylvania Railroad and the need to enter the long East River tunnels for access to New York City's Penn Station with cost effective, pollution free operations in tunnels and dense urban environments with heavy volumes of freight and passenger traffic.
Chapter 2: Feeding the Firebox illustrates the diversity of both passenger and freight operations behind steam until its demise in October, 1955.
The introduction of major cost effective diesels starting in the late 1940’s as the LIRR began to dieselize its aging steam fleet, completing the task by 1955 is covered in Chapter 3: Our Diesel Heritage.
Chapter 4: The Freight Business focuses on the Long Island's freight hauling and switcher operations illustrating the “other” Long Island Rail Road. Timeless photos of LIRR cabooses, freight trains, switching operations and other facets of good old time LIRR freight operations are presented.
Chapter 5: Passenger Services provides a view of the varied equipment leased and purchased for both everyday commuter use and “special” occasion operations. MUs, ping-pongs, double deckers and parlor cars all have a special place in LIRR history.
Chapter 6: Morris Park Shops takes you behind the scenes into the world of maintaining a large fleet of locomotives and passenger cars plus a tour of the service facilities required of a Class 1 railroad.
Chapter 7: Depots and Towers Along the Right of Way examines a part of daily operations that make the railroad function, usually unnoticed by the general public, but playing a critical role in the safe daily movement of people and goods over the line.
The authors’ intent is that this collection can stand alone or be viewed as a continuation of the first book. We hope this volume will enrich the reader's understanding and appreciation of a major force that has shaped Long Island’s past historical growth and affects the lives of so many even to this day.
p8-9, #2
Here is an official LIRR system map from the back of public timetable LI-1 effective September 20, 1936, however the Rand McNally & Co. map has a date of January, 1934. This map shows the Wading River extension as well as the Sag Harbor branch, both in use during this time frame, however it inaccurately also shows the Manhattan Beach branch which was abandoned in 1924. Curious, though, is the fact that the map had, indeed, been recently updated, as the Whitestone branch, abandoned in 1932, is not shown. (David Keller archive)
p10, #3
From the roof of the Oyster Bay freight house, we’re looking across the top of the boiler of leased Pennsylvania Railroad Atlantic class E3sd (4-4-2) locomotive #4176 on this winter’s day in early 1941. This close-up show the steam dome with the whistle mounted behind. The pull-chain leads from the whistle to the cab for the engineer’s use. Visible just below this chain is the ashpit track. Also seen is the brass bell in its mounting, then the sand dome, the smokestack, the generator and headlight. To the left of the headlight is one of the two classification lights which would soon be removed from all Pennsy locomotives by PRR edict. Beyond the steaming smokestack, smoke from which is covering the passenger cars in the right background, can be seen a wooden N52A class caboose laying up on the rear of a freight in the yard. (T. Sommer photo)
p11 – Chapter One
Celebrating 100 years (1905-2005) of electrification, the LIRR owes much of its success and viability to its parent road: The Pennsylvania Railroad. The PRR sought a terminus on Manhattan Island and undertook a massive project in 1903 to meet this need; a four-track main line set of tunnels under the Hudson River, the massive Pennsylvania Station, the four-track tunnels under the East River leading into the world's largest coach storage yard at Sunnyside, Long Island City, and the Hell Gate Bridge yielding access to New England. To accomplish this end the PRR bought controlling stock in the LIRR and commenced building in 1905.
That year saw some intense changes on the LIRR. July 26 saw the first electric service between Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn and Rockaway Park. On August 29, electric service opened from Flatbush Avenue to Jamaica. On October 2, electric service opened to Belmont Park Race Track. November 1 saw electric service to Queens Village. Three days later, the Flatbush Avenue station saw the last steam service and the new depot was placed in service on November 5. December 11 saw electrification spread from Jamaica to Valley Stream.
Pennsylvania Station was completed in June, 1910 and on September 8, the first LIRR commuter trains entered the East River tunnels and the Long Island connection to Manhattan was inaugurated. From that point forth the continued expansion and viability of Long Island suburban communities was assured.
p12, #4
MP41 cars numbered 1100 and 1101 are in Mitchell Field shuttle service on the east leg of the wye at Country Life Press in Garden City in this view looking northeast around 1938. The Central branch extension is visible at the left. These were the first MU (multiple unit) style cars in LIRR service. Built by American Car and Foundry in 1905, they measured 51’ – 4” in length. (Jeff Winslow photo)
p12 #5
Class AA1 electric locomotive #323 is laying up at the Richmond Hill Storage Yard in March, 1937. Built by the Pennsylvania Railroad in 1905 and numbered 10001, this experimental unit was the Pennsy’s first electric locomotive. It was sold to the LIRR in May, 1916 and renumbered 323. Nicknamed “Phoebe,” it was put into freight and switching service. In July, 1937 it was retired and scrapped. (Jeff Winslow photo)
p13, #6
Additional testing and experimentation (some held on the Central Extension in 1908) to develop an efficient electric locomotive that could accommodate passenger and freight service, especially into and out of the soon-to-be-opened Pennsylvania Station in Manhattan, led to the production of the class DD1 electric locomotive in 1909. Here DD1 #341 is caught at Sunnyside Yard in Long Island City in April, 1934 (George E. Votava photo)
p13, #7
DD1 #347 in shiny new paint is deadheading an equipment train eastbound from Pennsylvania Station in Manhattan to Jamaica, passing through Sunnyside, Long Island City, in August, 1937. Deadheading means non-revenue (no passengers), and, in this case, the DD1 is serving the purpose of delivering equipment to a terminal where it will be used as a scheduled train. (George E. Votava photo)
p14-p15, #8
Looking east from the Route 231 overpass in April, 1972 we see the huge Babylon electric yard. Laying up are the many M1 trains awaiting their next day rush-hour departure. A year or two earlier, this yard would have been filled with the old-style MU cars as well as MU double deckers. (George E. Votava photo)
p16, #9
Another style electric locomotive used in freight service was the B3 class. Equipped with folding pantographs, it got its juice from the overhead catenary wire system. This limited this locomotive’s service to the New York Interconnecting Railroad (former Bay Ridge branch) and areas of Long Island City. Here #337 with engineer and #328 are posing for the photographer at Bay Ridge, Brooklyn in July, 1938. (George E. Votava photo)
p16, #10
Looking into the motorman’s cramped quarters of a class MP72c MU car cab in 1957, we see the various equipment required to operate the car. The “owls-eye” window is visible above the air brake gauges. At the right are the various light switches. Directly under the air brake gauges is the controller handle. Various air lines are routed around the cab. (Jules P. Krzenski photo)
p17, #11
A three-car double decker train is sitting at the newer station platforms of Belmont Racetrack in Elmont, NY around 1960. The track is visible in the background. This spur branched off the Main Line just east of Queens Village and first provided service to the track in 1905. The original station covered platforms were razed in 1957 when the tracks were cut back to north of Hempstead Turnpike. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p17, #12
A two-car MU train is eastbound at the Valley Stream station in this 1967 view. This was one of the earlier grade elimination projects and notable are the LIRR keystone logos on either side of the station name. The tower-like structure at platform level is the baggage elevator, used to transport baggage checked at the ticket office at ground level up to track level. (David Keller photo)
p18, #13
Class A1 electric shop switcher #320 was used to move equipment around Morris Park Shops. Built by Baldwin-Westinghouse in 1927, this tiny locomotive is shown laying up on one of the tracks extending from the turntable in August, 1940. Part of the roundhouse is visible in the background, as is the Futura lettering on the locomotive tender. #320 was withdrawn from service in December, 1958. (H. Forsythe Collection, David Keller Archive)
p18, #14
An MU train is heading westbound from Hempstead towards the Garden City station, after having crossed over Franklin Avenue. Garden cabin is at the right, tight up against the store wall and protecting the crossing with manually operated gates. At the left is the wooden diamond crossing sign. The train is on the crossover switches accessing the westbound track and approaching the station in this 1956 view. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p19, #15
A brand new string of M1 cars is stopped at the Shea Stadium station at Flushing Meadows, Queens in this 1969 view. Originally the site of an ash dump, the surrounding area was used to host the 1939-40 and 1964-65 New York World’s Fairs. Shea Stadium was built here to house the New York Mets and the station was used for the ballpark after the Fair closed. (David Keller archive)
p19, #16
Looking east at Landia we see a MU train leaving the station and heading for the new end of electrified territory at Huntington in 1970. Originally opened in 1951 for employees of Circle Wire, the station continued in use years later after the company’s name was changed to Cerro Wire. The low platforms, one on alternating sides of Robbins Lane were removed on October 3, 1973. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p20, #17
A three-car MU train with REA (Railway Express Agency) car in the lead is heading eastbound over the Linden Boulevard crossing at Cedar Manor in 1954. Located on the Atlantic branch and opened in 1906, this little depot was razed in February, 1959 and the station stop discontinued with the grade elimination through here. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p20, #18
Viewed from the westbound platform is an eastbound MU train leaving the Broadway station in Flushing, bound for Port Washington in 1954. Opened in 1906, the station and platforms were elevated during 1912-13. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p21, #19
Looking east towards the 149th Place overpass and the Murray Hill depot beyond, a MU train is heading west at the station in 1950. Opened in July, 1914, the station platforms were built into the concrete embankment walls with safety openings every several feet to allow trackmen to stand to be safely clear of passing trains. The depot building spanning the tracks was razed in 1964. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p21 #20
The trainman is making sure all passengers are clear of the train as this MU is about to depart the Manhasset station eastbound for Port Washington in 1954 The substantial depot building was opened in 1925, with the ticket office and waiting room at street level. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p22, #21
It was a bright, sunny day at Port Washington terminal when this photo was taken in 1944. Standing on the low platforms and looking east towards the depot, we see two MU trains laying up. The train at the left appears ready to depart, with trainman standing on the closed trap and conversing with the motorman. At the far right is the freight house. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p22, #22
This MU train is heading westbound at the Nostrand Avenue, Brooklyn station in 1960. The elevated structure opened in August, 1905 and, at the time of the photo, still sported the fancy goose-neck platform lights and the decorative ornamental handrails visible at the far left and far right of this scene. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p23, #23
An MU RPO car is on the head end of this eastbound MU train approaching the St. Albans station in 1954. Looking west we see a mother and child awaiting the train. At the left is a T box housing the LIRR crew telephone. In front of it is an old, low, switch target. The business district is visible in the right background. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p23, #24
An MU train is discharging passengers at the platform of the West Hempstead station in 1950. The old depot building at the left had been built in 1928 on the north side of Hempstead Turnpike. It was moved south to this location and placed in service in September, 1935, to eliminate blocking the busy thoroughfares at train time. The depot was destroyed by fire in 1959. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p24, #25
Racing along westbound on the express tracks, this MU train is passing through Rego Park around 1952. The train has two RPO/REA cars in tow and the view is westward. Rego Park was located along the Main Line, but was a station stop only for trains servicing the Rockaway Beach branch. The structure was razed in November, 1958 and discontinued as a stop in June, 1962. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p24, #26
It’s 1940 and the 1906-era inspection shed at the Dunton Electric Car shops is hosting a selection of early MU equipment. At the left, looking east, is class MP54 motor #1438, built in 1908. In the center is MP41 motor #1001, built in 1905 and the first electric car used in LIRR service. To the right is class T54A trailer #983, built in 1917. (George E. Votava photo)
p25, #27
The grade elimination is progressing swiftly in the background as this MU train passes by on the westbound temporary track at Freeport in 1960. In the foreground are the hand-operated crossing gates with shiny crank handles. The temporary low-level platform is to the left of the train and a shelter shed can be seen on the eastbound platform at the right. The new station opened in 1961. (David Keller archive)
p25, #28
After the LIRR’s last MP41 class MU cars were retired from Mitchell Field shuttle service, they were replaced with two MP54 class MU cars. Looking northeast, #1762 and #1943 are laying up north of the station at Country Life Press, Garden City in 1949. This track once crossed the Central extension at Hempstead Crossing, a short distance beyond the left of the photo and continued to Mineola. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p26, #29
Another view of the shuttle in its last years is this shot taken at the Mitchell Field station. The station was used to service the air base located there. Looking east, the old wooden shelter shed is visible to the left of the 2-car train in this scene from 1950. All shuttle passenger service would end on this branch on May 15, 1953. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p26, #30
A westbound MU train in Tichy color scheme is at the Merillon Avenue, New Hyde Park, station in 1954. In this scene looking east, the remains of the decorative shrubs are visible amongst the weeds along the edge of the westbound low platform. Built in 1912, this pretty station was razed in 1958 and replaced in April of that year by a small brick and block structure. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p27, #31
When the Budd M1 “Metropolitan” electric cars first saw service on the LIRR, they were an eye-catcher. There were several display locations at outlying stations where the curious could climb into and inspect a set of cars. This scene, looking west at Valley Stream on April 20, 1969, shows a new M1 train being run as a railfan extra. The tower above the platform was the baggage elevator. (David Keller archive)
p27, #32
It’s a cold winter’s day c.1955 and a MU train in Tichy color scheme is emerging westbound on the express track from under the Lefferts Boulevard overpass, passing through Kew Gardens. The train has two double deck cars that appear to have just squeezed under the overpass.
At the left is the depot. On the platform at the right is the enclosed eastbound waiting room (W. J. Edwards photo)
p28, #33
A westbound MU train is entering Malba station in this c. 1925 scene. Built in 1908-09 on the Whitestone branch, north of the tracks and west of Malba Drive (144th Street), the station name was an acronym from the initials of the five original developers who bought the surrounding properties and incorporated the Malba Association in 1908. The branch, electrified in 1912, was abandoned in 1932. (James V. Osborne photo)
p28, #34
An MU train is crossing Hempstead Avenue and arriving at Malverne station on the West Hempstead branch on this summer’s day in 1954. The gates are down and the children are patiently waiting with their bicycles in front of them. Malverne depot was opened in February, 1913 and originally the West Hempstead branch connected Valley Stream with Country Life Press and Mineola. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p29 – Chapter Two
The LIRR as the largest commuter Class 1 railroad in the world had steam and plenty of it. Additionally, the size of the fleet required the needed support facilities in place to repair, upgrade, and maintain this large number of engines. The parent Pennsylvania Railroad met its own demand by designing and manufacturing most of their own locomotives at their own shops and as a result, was able to lease hundreds of engines of varying classes to the LIRR up to and ending in 1951 due to the volume of Long Island traffic handled. Said volume increased dramatically during the years of World War II as a result of troop trains to and from Camp Upton in Yaphank, plus increased freight activity to and from the aircraft and defense plants on the island. As a result of increased war demand, these classes included not only switcher-types but additional long-haul passenger locomotives such as the K4s Pacific and the massive L1s Mikado freight engines that saw LIRR service on the western end of the island during the war years only.
This chapter provides a look at steam in its various facets: switching in the yards, hauling freight along the line, and speeding the hundreds of thousands of commuters to Jamaica and Long Island City to make their connections to work in New York City, Brooklyn and Queens, returning home again on a daily basis.
p30, #35
Barreling westbound at speed through Floral Park on the express track is PRR K4s Pacific class (4-6-2) #5406 pulling Montauk train #27 on this September day in 1948. In the lead is a RPO (Railway Post Office) car. The tracks running along the platform at the right curve off beyond the grade crossing for the Hempstead branch. Covered in smoke in the distance is Park tower. (George E. Votava photo)
p30, #36
Looking east from the Oyster Bay freight house platform in 1940 we see locomotive class G5s (4-6-0) # 20 laying up. The NL stenciled on its pilot means the locomotive was to be used in the Pennsylvania Railroad’s New York region, Long Island zone. In the left background is the old, squat water tower with suspended spout. (T. Sommer photo)
p31, #37
In this crystal-clear and well-lighted shot, G5s #25 is seen laying up with its train in the Richmond Hill Storage Yard on a cold, crisp January day in 1937. The locomotive is sporting a low-sided tender. (David Keller archive)
p31, #38
Also in the Richmond Hill Storage Yard, awaiting the go-ahead for departure on this May day in 1937 is G5s #30 and train. The engineer is leaning out the cab window and his fireman is standing on the deck. This locomotive is sporting a high-sided tender. In the right background is the embankment of the Montauk branch and beyond it is the smokestack of Sheffield Farms. (David Keller archive)
p32, #39
Posing in front of the Trainmen’s building at the Richmond Hill Storage Yard in November, 1936, is G53sd (4-6-0) #143. The fireman is leaning out his side of the cab and watching the photographer. A tower was added to the top of this building in 1945, becoming the yardmaster’s office. (David Keller archive)
p32, #40
This is Maspeth, Queens on a winter’s day around 1946. C51sa (0-8-0) freight switcher #261 is running light against traffic with the ground showing the residue of filthy snow. The sloped-back tender is filled with coal and the locomotive is probably heading out to couple onto its freight laying up on a siding somewhere ahead. (Rolf Schneider photo)
p33, #41
It’s a hot, sunny, summer’s day in July, 1947 as is evident by all the windows opened on train #4619, allowing the passengers some cooler air. On the head end is G5s #40, pulling into Merillon Avenue station in New Hyde Park. The engineer is leaning out his cab window, giving the photographer a hearty wave. (George E. Votava photo)
p33, #42
Recently built, newly arrived and sporting a shiny smokebox is G5s #30 seen here at Morris Park Shops in 1928. Posing proudly next to the new engine are, at left, fireman Bill Aha and engineer Ferdinand Shiertcliff. In the right background is the LIRR “Doodlebug” #1134, the self-propelled, gasoline-powered railcar used in shuttle service to Sag Harbor. (Jefferson I. Skinner photo)
p34, #43
G5s #36 has just left Kings Park station, visible in the background along with the town water tower, and is heading westbound with weekend train #4615 from Kings Park State Hospital on this May day in 1947. The LIRR provided passenger service to the state hospitals on Long Island, carrying visitors on Sundays and delivering carloads of coal for heating and power. (George E. Votava photo)
p34, #44
Oyster Bay yard appears kind of empty of locomotives on this winter’s day in 1941 as we see a broadside view of G5s #38 after having just been spun around on the turntable. In the background can be seen a couple of Lehigh Valley Railroad hopper cars. (T. Sommer photo)
p35, #45
It’s a cool, February day in 1937 as PRR-leased E3sd (4-4-2) pulls 4-car train #529 from Oyster Bay westbound through Mineola. The REA/RPO car and three passenger coaches have just cleared the Mineola station platform. This old locomotive was built by the Pennsylvania Railroad’s shops in 1904 and used in LIRR service for several years. Originally classed E3d, it was reclassed E3sd after undergoing superheating conversion. (George E. Votava photo)
p35, #46
Sitting in front of the Hicksville express house, awaiting departure time, G5s #22 has a full head of steam and is waiting to head westbound on this July day in 1937. At the left is the express house and hovering over the tender is the semaphore block signal indicating the “stop” aspect. It’s a hot day as indicated by the windows open in the combine car. (George E. Votava photo)
p36, #47
Typical of the onslaught of Long Island winters is this scene from 1933. A class G5s locomotive, with wet snow adhering to and highlighting its pilot, is pulling its train at speed through the driving snow, and is about to cross Carleton Avenue in Central Islip. Beyond the old platform lamp and visible to the left is the diamond crossing sign. The wooden pole gates are down and the crossing guard is waving at the engineer. Beyond him is his shanty into which he will shortly hurry to warm up in front of the glowing pot-bellied stove. (George G. Ayling photo)
p37, #48
On a bright, sunny, crisp February day in 1937, G5s #23 and 3-car Port Jefferson train #627 heads westbound at Mineola station. The fireman is leaning out his cab window, peering at the photographer from behind his partial fold-out windscreen. At the far right can be seen a position light block signal. Beyond it is the soot-encrusted Mineola Boulevard overpass. (George E. Votava photo)
p37, #49
On a cold, March day in 1947, G5s #26 pulls train #4615 westbound through what appears to be miles and miles of endless farmland in rural Huntington. The tight, billowed smoke is indicative of the cold temperature of the day and envelops the train. At the right is one of the many diamond crossing protection signs seen all over the island at most crossings. (George E. Votava collection)
p38, #50
Another hot, sunny, humid Long Island day in July, 1948 finds G5s #26 pulling Oyster Bay train #4527 westbound through Albertson. The photographer has found a small patch of shade in which to wait to capture this shot. The water level in the tender is very evident by looking at the condensation formed along its side, almost giving it the appearance of a two-toned paint scheme. (George E. Votava collection)
p38, #51
It seems kind of deserted for train time at Port Jefferson on this June day in 1940. G5s #28 is laying up with its train at the platform ready to head westbound. Visible above the combine car behind the tender is the semaphore arm block signal. This signal once had two blades mounted on the mast when trains serviced Wading River prior to October, 1938. (George E. Votava photo)
p39, #52
Acres of empty field and farmland surround Pennsy-leased E6s (4-4-2) #230 as it pulls Saturday-only train #236 eastbound for Ronkonkoma through Hicksville on this hot, humid, July day in 1937. The engineer is leaning out the window for a breath of air and most of the car windows are open. Condensation has formed along the side of the tender and the summer haze encompasses everything. (Geoge E. Votava photo)
p39, #53
Typical Long Island industries of 1937 are seen on the north side of the tracks as G5s #31 pulls train #631 from Port Jefferson through Hillside on a hot September’s day. The fireman’s cab door is open as are many car windows to get some air. A signal bridge is overhead with position light signals controlling the 4-tracked main and Holban Yard appears to the right. (George E. Votava photo)
p40, #54
Looking west from the platform of the Hillside station in December, 1948 we see G5s #33 with a full head of steam and train #4228 in tow blasting its way out from under the elevated tracks of the Montauk branch. Visible behind the opposite platform can be seen one of the “new” diesels pulling a westbound freight train. This area was once known as Rockaway Junction. (George E. Votava collection)
p40, #55
PRR-leased G5s #5717 has just departed the old, wooden Cold Spring Harbor station and is heading west through the barren woods with 8-car train #4615 on this day in early March, 1947. The following year, the residents would have a brand-new depot and #5717 would soon leave Long Island, being sold for scrap in August, 1949. (George E. Votava collection)
p41, #56
The photographer is standing diagonally across from “B” tower and captures Pennsy-leased K4s #3655 with recent “face-lift” pulling its train eastbound through Bethpage Junction, Bethpage around 1947. In the distant background can be seen the overpass of the Long Island Motor Parkway and the diamond crossing signs of the grade crossing of Central Park Avenue. (George E. Votava collection)
p41, #57
The early evening sun backlights K4s #3741 as it pulls train #20 commonly know to all as the “Cannonball” eastbound through Hicksville on this July day in 1937. Behind the locomotive and tender can be seen the Pennsylvania Railroad parlor cars. At the far right is wooden snow plow #191 laying up in Hicksville yard. (George E. Votava photo)
p42, #58
Another hot day is evident as K4s #3754 pulls Sunday-only train #4230 eastbound for Ronkonkoma through Westbury in June, 1947. The K4s has not yet had its “face-lift” whereby the headlight and generator locations are switched, a smaller headlight installed and a platform added across the front of the smokebox with relocated handrail. The locomotive is, however, sporting a bright-silver-painted smokebox with black smokebox door. (George E. Votava photo)
p42, #59
PRR E3sd #2985 is deadheading a 2-car extra train westbound for Jamaica at Hicksville on this hot, July day in 1937. In the distance can be seen the old wooden express house and semaphore block signals. At the left can be seen an old, wooden, exterior-framed Erie boxcar spotted at the freight house and beyond it, one of many produce houses seen along the right-of-way. (George E. Votava photo)
p43, #60
Here is the Long Island City passenger yard in 1950. Looking west in the haze can be seen, from left to right, coupled to their respective trains, K4s #3887, an unidentified K4s, a train without locomotive, G5s #33, G5s #32 and train with tender only visible. In the center background can be seen the terminal building and in the right background, the PRR’s 1906 power plant. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p43. #61
Presenting a fine quartet, G5s locomotives are laying up at Oyster Bay on the old roundhouse tracks in February, 1948. (The roundhouse was removed in 1929.) Looking east, from left to right can be seen #39, #45 behind a small cloud of escaping steam, #30 and #22. They’re all fired up and are awaiting their engine crews to couple them to their respective commuter trains. (George E. Votava collection)
p44, #62
Viewed from a distant hillside, we have a very picturesque view, indeed, of Pennsy-leased E3sd #2985 steaming away into the cool fall air as it pulls a 3-car train westbound on the embankment after having just departed from the station at Mill Neck (located just to the right of the curve in the tracks, outside the photo) in November, 1940. Looking east we see the rural panorama of the community as well as Beaver Dam Pond cut in two by the railroad but connected by a stone-framed culvert, visible to the right of the embankment by the water. (George E. Votava photo)
p45 – Chapter Three
Diesels were first introduced on the LIRR in 1925 in the guise of an Ingersoll-Rand demonstrator unit, followed the same year by box cab #401. 1926 saw box cab #402:1 in service for a very short time. 1928 saw the arrival of box cabs #403A and B, nicknamed “Mike and Ike.”
Major dieselization began to appear in earnest, with the ultimate goal of replacing the steam fleet, starting in 1945. Far more energy efficient, less costly to repair and not requiring large quantities of coal and water, the diesel soon eclipsed the 100-plus year reign of the steam engine in less than a decade. Not readily accepted by old-time steam engine crews, the diesel, nonetheless, was here to stay and became a serious item with which to be reckoned.
Early units included ALCO S-1 and S-2 models for yard work, RS models for road switching freight and commuter runs as well as Baldwin VO model freight switchers and DS4 models for both freight and commuter runs. Fairbanks-Morse CPA models appeared in 1950 for passenger service, followed in 1951 by stronger CPA passenger models as well as Fairbanks-Morse H16 models for both freight and commuter runs.
By the end of October, 1955 the diesels had replaced all steam engines and the LIRR had settled largely on ALCO, Baldwin and Fairbanks-Morse for its major fleet requirements. The old-time engine crews now had to deal with “progress.”
p46, #63
The early attempts at manufacturing a functioning diesel locomotive wound up in the design and production of the oil-electric box cab. Classed AA2, box cab #401 is seen laying up on one of the turntable “garden” tracks at Morris Park Shops in August, 1939. A G5s is on the turntable and H10s #118 is adjacent to the oil-electric. The 401 was built in November, 1925 by Alco/GE/Ingersoll-Rand. (David Keller archive)
p46, #64
One of the shortest durations of LIRR service was that of box cab #402:1. Built by J. G. Brill in January, 1926, it had twin gasoline engines and was classed AA3. After a two week trial in LIRR service, it was returned to Brill. Here the box cab is lettered for the LIRR but pulls a freight train in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania when brand new. (George E. Votava collection)
p47, #65
The second #402 was a product of Alco/GE/Ingersoll-Rand from September, 1928. Its track record in LIRR service was better than its predecessor. Classed AA3, this oil electric is seen laying up behind a DD1 electric locomotive at the Morris Park Shops in November, 1940. Used in local freight service, the 402:2 was finally retired in June, 1951. (David Keller archive)
p47, #66
Stubby little box cab #403A is shown laying up in front of the Pennsylvania Railroad’s freight station at the North 4th Street Yard in Brooklyn around 1937. A product of Baldwin-Westinghouse from January, 1928, this unit was classed AA4 and nicknamed “Mike.” It lasted in LIRR freight service with B-unit “Ike” until it was retired and sold in June, 1945. (Jeff Winslow photo)
p48, #67
“Ike,” the other half of the #403A-B box cab set was #403B, seen here in 1939 pulling a special freight train on the grounds of the New York World’s Fair at Flushing Meadows. Whatever the load is, it is heavily tarped. The 403B was also built by Baldwin-Westinghouse in January, 1928 and retired at the same time as the A-unit. (Jeff Winslow photo)
p48, #68
It would be 17 years before the LIRR purchased more diesel locomotives for road use. Baldwin model VO-660 #403 was one such unit. Built in September, 1945, it was soon placed in LIRR service. It is shown here in April, 1950, laying up at Morris Park Shops with an H10s locomotive in the background. This unit had 660 horsepower and was sold in November, 1963. (George E. Votava photo)
p49, #69
Another early Baldwin product was the model DS4-4-660. Built in May, 1948, #412 is seen here at the Long Island City passenger yard in 1951. At the left is a smokestack of the PRR power plant. At the right can be seen tenements with laundry hanging out back to dry. The 412, also equipped with 660 horsepower, was sold in February, 1964 and scrapped. (David Keller archive)
p49, #70
Contemporary with the Baldwin units were the 660 horsepower Alco/GE model S1 diesels. Built in June, 1946, #407 is seen in MTA color scheme of blue and yellow laying up with an idler car at the Long Island City float docks in September, 1972. In this view looking west towards the Manhattan skyline, the Empire State building is visible behind the locomotive. (David Keller archive)
p50, #71
Looking north at the trestle over North Ocean Avenue east of Holtsville, Alco C420 #206 is speeding along pulling train #204 eastbound for Greenport in January of 1970. The lead car is a baggage car, carrying newspapers at the time to throw off at stations along the way. Despite the cold temperature, the second door is part-way open to prepare for the upcoming stop at Medford. (David Keller photo)
p50, #72
Back in 1950 when the LIRR was planning on purchasing additional diesels, several manufacturers provided demonstrators for trial runs. Here, EMD model GP7 demonstrator #200 is pulling a LIRR train eastbound at Huntington station. This unit, built in November, 1949, was in LIRR trial service from March 27 to April 10, 1950. It later became Chicago & North Western #1519. The LIRR opted to purchase Fairbanks-Morse units. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p51, #73
The Budd Rail Diesel Car (RDC) was ideal for lines with low passenger ridership. The LIRR purchased two units: RDC1 #3101 and RDC2 #3121 with ideas of acquiring more. Here, RDC2, complete with baggage compartment, is headed eastbound at Riverhead station in early morning “East Ender” service to Greenport in 1956. The name is painted in script on the orange end door of the stainless steel car. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p51, #74
Budd RDC2 and RDC1, numbered 3121 and 3101, are coupled together in front of the Greenport depot with RDC 2 sitting on the wooden rail dock. RDC2 bears modernization #1 in the round circle next to the baggage door. RDC1 was assigned #49. This shot, looking west, was taken in 1956. A freight car can be seen in the rear left background on the team track. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p52, #75
Another early style of diesel used on the LIRR was Baldwin model DS4-4-1000 #450 which was built in April, 1948. This photo, shot from the signal mast across from the yard limit sign, shows #450 and westbound train leaving Oyster Bay in 1950. It appears the engineer is hollering at the photographer to get down for his own safety. This unit was sold in 1964 and scrapped. (J. P. Sommer photo)
p52, #76
The old LIRR engineers liked to run their units long-nosed forward; probably a carry-over from steam days, so it wasn’t unusual to see an occurrence such as this back in the early 1950s. Here Alco model RS1 #462 in the Tichy color scheme with shadowed map under the cab window and battleship-style numbers on the side louvers is getting spun on the Oyster Bay turntable in 1950. (J. P. Sommer photo)
p53, #77
Pulling a railfan extra in May, 1968, Alco model RS3 #1556 is on the westbound leg of the wye at Upton Junction after having run the train up the former Camp Upton branch on the grounds of the Brookhaven National Laboratory. The RS3 is crossing one of the dirt roads at the old junction and is heading towards the main line for its return trip. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p53, #78
Alco C420 #211 and train is literally at the end of the line as we look westward in 1968 from the end of track at Montauk, the easternmost terminus of the line. The lead car is an old heavyweight parlor. A lone boxcar sits on the freight siding and the old Navy buildings on the site of the original LIRR terminal are visible at the right. (Bob Lorenz photo)
p54, #79
Alco model FA-1m #612 was one of a number of units acquired for use in “Push-Pull” service. As control cab coupled on the east end of the train, a powered C420 would be coupled on the west end. The train would be “pushed” east and “pulled” west. Engines did not need to be turned or run around the train. This scene is at Oyster Bay in April, 1974. (David Keller archive)
p54, #80
Also used in “Push-Pull” service were the Alco model FA-2m control cabs. Here #601 is on train #4651 running at speed through Syosset in April, 1972. This unit was built in June, 1956 and owned by the Louisville & Nashville Railroad. The FA-2m units were acquired in 1971 while the FA-1m units were acquired a year later. (David Keller archive)
p55, #81
Backing its train into the concrete portal under the Montauk branch embankment, Alco C420 #213 is passing Dunton tower as it accesses the Richmond Hill Storage Yard on this January day in 1966. The view is looking northwest and the message “Safety Begins Here” is stenciled in large letters under the lower front window of the interlocking tower. (David Keller archive)
p55, #82
Never again to be duplicated is this view looking northwest towards the station area in Babylon. On this September day in 1950, we have a good view, from left to right, of the old depot, pedestrian overpass, express house, Alco RS1 #465 with train, MU combine car with electric train, semaphore arm block signals and the old diamond crossing sign at the Depot Place grade crossing. (George E. Votava collection)
p56, #83
We’re looking north towards the tall, steel, girder trestle over Old Town Road east of Setauket in January, 1972. Alco FA-2m control cab #602 is in “Push-Pull” service as its being pulled westbound amidst the barren trees. A product of Alco from June, 1956, it, too, ran on the L&N and was acquired by the LIRR in June, 1971 where it was converted to a control cab. (David Keller photo)
p56, #84
Having completed a heavy haul of stone for track work along the Main Line, these Alco units are laying up at the wye at Ronkonkoma in 1969. Looking northeast we see RS1 models numbered 467, 468 and 469 as well as S2 model #456. At the far left is the tool shanty that once was located south of the main and served as KO block station. (Jules P. Krzenski photo)
p57, #85
Neatly spaced and laying up facing westward awaiting departure time are Fairbanks-Morse H16-44 models numbered 1507 and 1506 and Alco model RS3 #1558. This is Ronkonkoma yard in January, 1964 and the FM units are about to be retired. Discolored spots under the headlights show where their builder’s plates have already been removed. They will be replaced with the new Alco C420 models. (George E. Votava photo)
p57, #86
Looking east we see Alco model FA-2m control cab #606 westbound in “Push-Pull” service as it approaches the antique 1873 depot at St. James in March, 1973. The train is being pushed by an Alco C420 on the east end while the engineer operates the train from this cab. Originally on the east end of the trains, the control cabs were later placed on the west end. (David Keller photo)
p58, #87
This is the West Yard at Port Jefferson in 1957. Located west of the depot and the Route 112 crossing it serves as a lay-up yard for both locomotives and trains. Looking east towards the express house, which originally was the first depot building, we see Fairbanks-Morse models CPA20-5 #2008 and CPA24-5 #2401 at the left and FM model H16-44 #1504 at the right. (Jules P. Krzenski photo)
p58, #88
Clustered together in this composite photographic “montage” we see the cab of Alco Model RS3 #1553 framed between the nose of RS3 #1556 and the steps of RS3 #1558 as they all lay-up in the yard at Ronkonkoma on a sunny day in 1957. (Jules P. Krzenski photo)
p59, #89
Sitting on the lay-up track north of the Country Life Press station in Garden City is Alco Model S1 #408 with sole Chesapeake & Ohio boxcar. The date is May 20, 1948 and the engineer is relaxing as he leans his arm and back against the cab window while he waits for permission to leave and spot this car somewhere along the Hempstead branch. (George E. Votava collection)
p59, #90
In this northward view taken in August, 1970 we see Alco model S1 #420 sitting near the Trainmen’s building in the Richmond Hill Storage yard. Viewed from the embankment, part of the building is visible at the left and the car washing machine is visible behind the locomotive. In the background are some “ping-pong” cars and one of the ex-New York Central cars billed as “Silver Streak.” (David Keller archive)
p60, #91
Winter has dumped a nice load of snow on Long Island making for a picturesque action scene as Alco C420 #213 is captured pulling Greenport train #204 eastbound at speed over the Blue Point Road crossing east of Holtsville in 1969. The view is looking north and the crossing has only recently been converted to automatic gates and lights. (David Keller photo)
p60, #92
Fairbanks-Morse model CPA24-5 has just left Port Jefferson and is headed westbound as it passes under the old wooden trestle carrying Sheep Pasture Road over the tracks west of the station and West Yard area in this summer scene from 1957. Built in September, 1951, it was one of four 2400 horsepower units in use on the LIRR and was retired between February and April, 1964. (Jules P. Krzenski photo)
p61 – Chapter Four
Since their inception, over 150 years ago, railroads have existed to move people and goods. The mainstay of most railroads are freight operations; unlike the LIRR which has a massive daily commuter operation.
However, unseen by most, the LIRR had a viable freight operation serving communities and industries from Long Island City eastward to the far reaching end points of Long Island. Daily “extras” were assigned to pickup, spot (deliver) and move freight on and off the Island.
Every town and village served by the LIRR usually had a local coal dealer, lumber supply and team track (customers without rail sidings would send a team of horses and wagon to pick up shipments) to work.
Lumber, coal, building supplies, cement and other raw materials were shipped in to feed the building booms and eastward expansion. Shellfish, potatoes, sand, fruits and vegetables and finished goods were shipped out.
The average LIRR freight was 25-35 cars in length, but occasional “coal drags” over 50 cars or 100 car potato trains westbound for New York markets and beyond were not uncommon.
Bringing up the rear was the ubiquitous caboose or “hack” as they were termed. Like most roads the caboose was the conductor’s office, a place of shelter from the elements, and a useful vantage point to watch the freight cars to spot any potential trouble such as spotting “hot boxes” in the wheels, or possible derailments.
p62, #93
Looking southeast from the rear of the Central Islip depot, Consolidation class H10s (2-8-0) #103 is switching an afternoon freight westward over the Carleton Avenue crossing during the summer of 1933. The brakeman is standing on the station platform as the engine, displaying white flags on the sides of its smokebox passes by. Visible at the left are the unique pole-gates that guarded this crossing until 1958. (George G. Ayling photo)
p62, #94
Chuffing black smoke and hauling a string of freight cars, H10s #112 passes through a recently-plowed field east of Cold Spring Harbor in 1950. This area was still very rural at the time, and, as along the eastern portion of the Main Line, consisted of many acres of farm land. (Frank Zahn photo)
p63, #95
Pulling a class N52A wooden cupola-topped caboose, C51sa #269 is seen here near Maspeth around 1946. The sloped-back tender with handrail has a full load of coal and the locomotive’s bell is ringing. In the foreground are the remains of a beat-up end-of-track steel bumper. (Rolf H. Schneider photo)
p63, #96
Important features in the freight business were the many freight houses built at most station locations to store and record the freight carried. The size of these manned offices depended on the amount of freight handled there. This little concrete block structure housed the Blissville freight station in Long Island City in December, 1970. It was built in the late 1950s as the freight business was dwindling. (David Keller photo)
p64, #97
As a contrast to the previous scene, we have the huge freight station at Huntington, shown here in 1969. Located north of the tracks and west of New York Avenue, the days of the structure were numbered. The long, wooden, trackside platform has been removed as has been the ramp up at the near end of the structure. (David Keller photo)
p64, #98
An intermediate-sized but substantial structure is the old freight house at Amagansett. Built in 1895, this brick structure is shown looking northeast in April, 1970, also minus its wooden platform. When the Montauk branch was extended in 1895 from Bridgehampton to Montauk, Amagansett became a major terminal with roundhouse, turntable, water and coaling facilities, and boarding house for train crews. Very few trains made the full trip east. (David Keller photo)
p65, #99
Looking east at Southampton in April, 1970 we see the old, wooden freight house at the left. The wooden platform is still intact, but is beginning to decay. The station with long, covered platforms is at the right and in the foreground is the SN block limit station signal, consisting of an electrified old kerosene-type lamp. Express houses were once located at the ends of these covered platforms. (David Keller photo)
p65, #100
Class B3 electric locomotives handled freight along the New York Interconnecting Railroad (former Bay Ridge branch). Seen here, #s 337 and 325, with the aid of an idler or “reach” car, are loading or off-loading one of the car floats in Bay Ridge yard in April, 1946. The idler car acted as a spacer car and kept the locomotive’s weight off the float. (H. Forsythe collection, David Keller archive)
p66, #101
A Class H10s Consolidation locomotive is reversed and pulling a long string of freight cars past the Fresh Pond station in this 1944 scene. Looking southeast from the Metropolitan Avenue overpass, we see the semaphore home signal mounted on the bridge and the c. 1915 pedestrian crossover to access the crushed cinder station platform. In the center background is the New York Connecting Railroad bridge near the base of which is located Pond tower. The west yard can be seen in the right background. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p67, #102
Freight sidings in electrified territory were equipped with third rail so they could be serviced by either electric or steam locomotives. DD1 class electric locomotive #338 is pulling a 4-car freight westbound through Sunnyside, Long Island City in August, 1937. The Knickerbocker Ice Company is visible at the left. The DD1 class locomotive was frequently used in both passenger and freight service. (George E. Votava photo)
p67, #103
Electric service reached Babylon in 1925 and it remained the eastern-most point of electrification for many years. In this view from March, 1936, DD1 #349 and N52A class caboose #18 are laying up at the freight house at Babylon. They have either finished up a job switching freight along the electrified Montauk (Babylon) branch, or are awaiting their crew to head out for another long day. (George E. Votava collection)
p68, #104
For years, freight cars were brought onto and off Long Island by car floats. These floats would be pulled by tugboat and maneuvered into position underneath float docks. The docks would raise or lower the connecting track platform to match the car float level due to the differing heights resulting from the tides. They would be loaded or unloaded by means of a switcher locomotive and an idler or “reach” car, which was designed to keep the weight of the engine off the barge, yet provide the engine crew with sufficient visibility. This view of one pair of the Long Island City float docks was photographed in January, 1971, looking northwest. The New York City skyline is in the background across the East River. (David Keller photo)
P69, #105
Consolidation class H6sb #307:2 pulls an early morning freight westbound out of Oyster Bay on this winter’s day in 1940. The morning sun backlights the short train as it approaches the switch to Jakobsen Shipyard, located to the left of the photographer outside the photo. (T. Sommer photo)
P69, #106
Under a plume of smoke, H10s #101 pulls a string of freight cars eastbound through Westbury in June, 1947. The train appears to stretch as far as the eye can see as it passes the Country Life Press Westbury plant. In the distance one can just make out the old freight house at Westbury station. (George E. Votava photo)
p70, #107
Caboose, hack, crummy or cabin car; call it whatever you like, this was an important piece of equipment to freight crews. It was the freight conductor’s office and crew bunkroom. It carried equipment necessary to freight service and had toilet facilities, a pot-bellied stove and a cupola to observe the train ahead. Class N5b steel caboose #2 is shown here at Long Island City in August, 1953. (George E. Votava collection)
p70, #108
An example of the close quarters inside a caboose is evident in this view of the freight conductor’s small desk with shaded kerosene lamp attached to the wall and green-glass insulator acting as a paperweight. This is caboose C92, one of several ex-Illinois Central hacks with cupola top acquired by the LIRR in January, 1972. This view was shot at Patchogue in October of the same year. (David Keller photo)
p71, #109
In addition to the DD1 locomotives in electrified territory, freight was also switched by steam. H10s #102 is pulling a string of freight cars past third rail as it trundles through Lynbrook on this summer’s day in July, 1937. The engineer is leaning out his cab window to check on the condition of the train behind him. (George E. Votava collection)
p71, #110
Steam was on the wane in July, 1952 when this new Baldwin diesel was photographed. Model DS4-4-1000 #450 is pulling a very long string of cars through Hicksville. A product of the Baldwin Locomotive Works in April, 1948 this unit had 1000 horsepower and was placed in both freight and passenger service. It was retired and sold for scrap in February, 1964. (George E. Votava photo)
p72, #111
Another early diesel locomotive used towards the end of the steam era was the Alco model S1. Here #416 is seen switching freight cars near Woodside around 1950 with wooden class N52A caboose #11 positioned behind the locomotive, to allow the cars to be spotted at different sidings without the hack having to be cut off each time. (David Keller archive)
p72, #112
In July, 1952, the H10s class locomotives are all the steam power that’s left for LIRR freight service. The last of the leased Pennsylvania Railroad locomotives have all been returned and the G5s class locomotives are handling passenger service. Here H10s #117 pulls a 21-car freight train bound for Port Jefferson through Hicksville. Three more years will see a complete takeover by diesels. (George E. Votava photo)
p73, #113
Steam is gone and diesels are here to stay in this view from January, 1958. Snow is on the ground as Alco model S2 #452 runs westbound and cab-forward at New Hyde Park with a 16-car freight train in tow. The improved visibility of running in reverse was an innovation difficult for the ex-steam men to handle, and rarely ran their engines in this manner. (George E. Votava photo)
p73, #114
It’s July 5, 1954 and Alco S2 #460 is providing the finishing touches by adding caboose #45 to the rear of a 59-car freight it has prepared at Holban Yard in Hollis to be hauled eastbound by H10s steam locomotive #111, smoke of which is visible behind the trees in the right background. Caboose #18 is laying up at the left. (George E. Votava photo)
p74, #115
Alco RS1 #468 in Tichy color scheme with battleship numbers on its side louvers pulls a freight train through New Hyde Park during July, 1953. The diesel locomotives are beginning to fill in regularly for the steam locomotives, as the model RS1 was used in both freight and passenger service. Built by Alco/GE in April, 1950, it was to serve the LIRR for 27 years. (George E. Votava photo)
p74, #116
We have a 4-unit lash-up of Alco RS1 models with #s 469, 465, 468 and 467 pulling a freight train westbound on the Montauk branch at Glendale in March, 1971. All the units are wearing the MTA color scheme of blue and yellow as they pass the empty East Yard on their way towards Pond tower and Fresh Pond. (David Keller archive)
p75, #117
Used for both passenger and freight service, the Fairbanks-Morse model H16-44 was powerful and versatile. Here #1505 is seen using its 1600 horsepower to pull an early afternoon freight eastbound from Ronkonkoma in 1957. Built in October, 1951, this unit would be retired between 1963-1964 and sold after it was replaced by the arrival of the Alco C420 “Century” models. (Jules P. Krzenski photo)
p75, #118
Most times running as a pair, the LIRR’s only Alco RS2 models, numbered 1519 and 1520, are seen here with a caboose and freight train passing Fremont tower at Fresh Pond Junction in April, 1971. Viewed from the New York Connecting Railroad tracks, the train is snaked along the connection to the Montauk branch. These units were acquired from the Delaware and Hudson Railway in August, 1962. (David Keller archive)
p76, #119
Wooden N52A caboose #45 is shown here at Hicksville, coupled to LIRR gondola #2715 at the rear of a work train in July, 1937. Built in 1916, this caboose was the standard model in use on the LIRR for many years. With wooden body, cupola top and steel frame, this caboose put in many trip miles and was the home to many crewmen in its lifetime. (George E. Votava photo)
p76, #120
Bringing up the rear of this 2-car freight train is wooden caboose #34. It’s ambling along the Central branch extension in the noonday sun at Washington Street in Garden City in July, 1953. On the head end is Baldwin model DS4-4-1000 #450 as the short train passes the “T” box at left, housing the LIRR’s old-style magneto crank-handled phone for train crew use. (George E. Votava photo)
p77– Chapter Five
The heart of all LIRR operations is passenger service, primarily in the form of daily commuter operations. Engines, such as the G5s class (4-6-0) were designed for fast acceleration and power to pull the steel coaches the short distances from station to station. Later on, diesels were assigned this duty.
There were the venerable “ping-pong” cars, so called for the bouncy ride they provided when pulled by steam and diesel locomotives. In use on non-profitable branches in the 1920s and 1930s were self-propelled railcars called “doodlebugs” as well as a more up-to-date version: Budd Rail Diesel Cars.
The LIRR also had electric MU commuter operations with the distinctive "owl eye" end windows followed in the early 1970s by the arrival of the M1 electric cars.
Perhaps fondly remembered by many were the parlor cars. Going back to the 1920s, Pennsylvania Railroad parlors were frequently used on trains such as the “Sunrise Special.” Then, starting in 1957, the LIRR acquired used heavyweight cars of their own, primarily from the PRR, plus some from other roads. Utilized during the summers and on name trains such as "The Cannonball" and "The East Ender," these cars, became the “Blue Ribbon Fleet,” offering extra fare accommodation. Also provided was private “club car” service on certain branches.
From 1968-1970, used, lightweight, sleeping cars, sleeper-lounge cars, buffet lounge cars, and tavern-lounge-observation cars were purchased from a variety of roads to replace the aging heavyweights in parlor car service.
p78, #121
Rural Albertson is viewed from a small rise as G5s #33 pulls train #4514 eastbound through the snow-covered town in this February scene from 1948. The photographer has captured the train from the rear as it heads towards Oyster Bay. The steam from the locomotive’s stack is crisp in the frigid air as it is blown to the side. (George E. Votava collection)
p78, #122
Reading Company coaches see LIRR service in this shot taken at Central Islip around 1954. Looking southeast, the eastbound train is crossing Carleton Avenue. Visible are the old manual pole-gates and manned wooden crossing shanty that are both about to be phased out by the newly-installed automatic crossing lights still covered on their mast. The pole gates were constructed from telephone poles and lowered by ropes. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p79, #123
A 3-car MU train in Tichy color scheme has just made a noon-day stop at New Hyde Park station around 1954. The train will continue eastbound to Mineola. The depot was opened in 1947, replacing the old, wooden structure across the tracks that dated from 1870. The siding curving to the left accesses G. H. Stattel’s seed and feed warehouse, while the team track continues straight. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p79, #124
It’s a warm September day in 1948 and MU double decker car #1346 brings up the rear of a 5-car all double decker train westbound at Nassau Boulevard station in Garden City. The old depot is sporting the cast iron Pennsylvania Railroad keystone-style station sign. The gates remain down as an MU train approaches the station area eastbound on the adjacent track. (George E. Votava photo)
p80, #125
An MU train crosses the wooden-pile trestle over Reynold’s Channel at Long Beach on this summer’s day around 1960. Unusual is seeing a combine car as the second car of the consist. The train has just passed Lead interlocking cabin and crossed over the swing bridge, of which the “A-frame” tower is visible behind the train. At the right is a block signal for oncoming trains. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p80, #126
An alternative to taking the train was offered by the LIRR in the form of “Road ‘n’ Rail” sub-contracted bus service. These buses picked up the slack caused by cutbacks in train service in the early 1960s on the eastern end of the island. Here is a view of bus #364 alongside the depot at Greenport in 1962. The rail dock is visible to the right. (J. P. Sommer photo)
p81, #127
Another scene of “Road ‘n’ Rail” service at work is this shot of bus #370 just arriving at the rear of the station at Riverhead during the summer of 1968. The few passengers that will be boarding are in the depot waiting room. Separate fares were required for this service. Tickets purchased for the train as well as employee passes were not honored on the bus. (David Keller photo)
p81, #128
This view at Babylon looking northwest towards the elevated station and tracks shows “Road ‘n’ Rail” bus #371 awaiting a train connection outside the ticket office in 1969. The two main bus routes were Greenport to Huntington and Montauk to Amityville. (Jules P. Krzenski photo)
p82, #129
1950 was a very bad year for the LIRR. Besides having financial troubles, a deadly collision at Rockville Centre in February was followed by the horrible collision at Richmond Hill (actually 1,960 feet east of the Kew Gardens station) in November. One result of the later accident was the installation of a very visible rear marker lamp. This close-up was taken at Oyster Bay in 1952. (J. P. Sommer photo)
p82, #130
A factor in the disaster at Rockville Center in February, 1950 was the use of the gauntlet track, which were 2 tracks overlapping to utilize available space. Opposing trains wound up simultaneously traveling on their portions of this overlapping track and collided head-on. This scene from prior to the collision shows a double-decker train traversing the gauntlet track. The grade elimination is visible at the left. (David Keller archive)
p83, #131
As the LIRR was owned by the Pennsylvania Railroad for many years, it was not unusual to see PRR equipment, such as parlor cars, and baggage cars running on the road. Here, regular passenger car #1060 is on a train of PRR coaches at the passenger terminal at Long Island City. Also visible in this October, 1936 shot looking north is the PRR electric power plant. (William Lichtenstern photo)
p83, #132
Another service provided by the LIRR was regularly scheduled passenger trains to the state mental hospitals. Run on Sundays, they would drop off visitors to the hospitals and lay up either on the hospital grounds, or in a terminal yard. Alco C420 #205 and train is laying up just beyond the Kings Park State Hospital station platform in this view from 1969. (David Keller photo)
p84, #133
The Budd car was a popular site on the east end of the island for many years. RDC2 #3121 with baggage compartment and “East Ender” logo on its end doors would regularly make trips east. Designated as Riverhead train #4286, it is headed eastbound at Mineola in October, 1955. Looking west from Nassau tower, we see the freight-only spur to Garden City at the left. (George E. Votava photo)
p84, #134
The late afternoon sun is glistening off the side of G5s and 4-car Oyster Bay train heading westbound at Mineola in February, 1937. The train has just departed the station and is headed towards Jamaica with combine car #618 bringing up the rear. The steam is crisp in the cold air, which is soon to get even chillier as the sun sets. (William Lichtenstern photo)
p85, #135
Before the days of shopping malls and the abundance and proliferation of department stores and boutiques, most people did their serious shopping in Manhattan. The LIRR offered special “Ladies Day” rates on Wednesdays to encourage women to ride the LIRR for their trip into the city for their shopping forays. MU car #4153 sports the “Ladies Day” banner at Jamaica in this view from 1962. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p85, #136
Beginning in 1958, the LIRR decided to create a new logo called “The Route of the Dashing Commuter” which stylized the “typical” LIRR commuter as “Dashing Dan.” Here was Dan, with fedora hat, eyeglasses, umbrella and briefcase, running to catch his train, sweating, desperately looking at his wristwatch. This logo was photographed in 1969 as it was displayed on the side of passenger car #7092. (David Keller photo)
p86, #137
One of the bouncier rides on the LIRR could be obtained in a “ping-pong” car, so named because they bounced the rider around. Here is an interior view of car #7006 taken at Patchogue in December, 1971. Visible are the ceiling fans and the 3/2 seating pattern. The handles on the corners of the seats allowed the crew to flip the backs when the train changed direction. (David Keller photo)
p86, #138
This interior shot is of a newer style car, eventually converted to “push-pull” train service. Car #2833, a product of Pullman-Standard in 1955, is shown here at Ronkonkoma in August, 1972. These cars were much smoother riding than the “pings,” were air conditioned and well-heated. (David Keller photo)
p87, #139
One of the most famous name trains on the LIRR was train #18, the Sunrise Special. Departing from Pennsylvania Station, the all-parlor extra-fare train traveled along the Main Line to Manorville, branching off to Eastport with Montauk its final destination. Here, G5s #21, the regularly assigned engine, pulls the Sunrise Special, complete with personalized tender herald, eastbound through Central Islip at speed around 1927. (George G. Ayling photo)
p87, #140
An unusual visitor at Oyster Bay in 1939 is the open-end observation car #100 of the Southern Pacific Railroad. Sporting a fabric awning, the words “official car” appear on the end door. G5s #22 can be seen at the water tower at the left and the brick freight house is visible to the right of the car. A string of freight cars is at the far right. (T. Sommer photo)
p88, #141
Before the LIRR acquired its own parlor car fleet, Pennsylvania Railroad parlors were used on trains to Montauk and Greenport. Laying up in the yard at Montauk in September, 1951, we see the PRR parlor car “Bald Eagle.” Built by Pullman in 1927 it had 28 chairs plus drawing rooms. (George E. Votava photo)
p88, #142
This interior view of the tavern lounge observation car Asharoken, assigned road number 2082 and photographed at Montauk in September, 1974 is looking towards the closed observation end, showing the tavern area separated from the lounge seating area by a half-wall topped with plexiglass. The small windows at the end of the car allowed a view of the tracks and right-of-way as one traveled. (David Keller photo)
p89, #143
After the LIRR’s Special Services Department started their parlor car service, they decided to also provide bar service to the regular fare passengers on the runs to the east end. Ex-Boston & Maine car #4598 was one of many cars converted to bar service. Seats were removed, an almost ¾-car-length bar was added and this car was renumbered #7540. It was photographed at Ronkonkoma in 1969. (David Keller photo)
p89, #144
In an effort to upgrade their passenger service, the LIRR began in 1967 to acquire equipment from other roads. In this February, 1968 view at Smithtown, we see Alco C420 #207 with three ex-New York Central stainless steel cars loading passengers as it prepares to head west. These shiny, fluted cars were advertised as “Silver Streak” service and attracted a lot of attention. (Bob Lorenz photo)
p90, #145
The majority of the LIRR’s parlor car trains operated to the Hamptons with the last stop at Montauk. Looking east towards Montauk Manor on the distant hillside we see a full string of heavyweight parlor cars laying up at the right while Alco C420 #211 is prepared to depart westward with another heavyweight parlor car train in this view from the summer of 1965. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p90, #146
Usually at the rear of the name train “Cannonball”, open-end observation car #2000 named “Jamaica” would also be assigned to special inspection trains when top management would ride the line. It is photographed on the end of a string of heavyweight parlors at Montauk in 1962. The small #240 in the window is the car assignment number for the passengers. This number would vary by trip. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p91, #147
Heavyweight parlor car #2036, named “Oneida Club” is shown here on a string of heavyweight parlors laying up at Montauk in 1965. Built by Pullman in 1916 as class P74DL, it was originally Pennsylvania Railroad parlor #7052, named “Westdale.” As did the PRR parlor car “Bald Eagle,” the “Westdale” may have also seen previous service on the LIRR in Pennsy livery. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p91, #148
Some of the later and more “lightweight” equipment acquisitions of the LIRR starting in 1967 with the “silver streak” cars included Florida East Coast closed-end observation and tavern lounge car “Lake Okeechobee,” photographed at Montauk in June, 1969. Built by Budd in 1947, the 64-seat car was acquired by the LIRR in October, 1968, was renumbered #2064 and renamed “Apaquogue.” (William Lichtenstern photo)
p92, #149
New Haven Pullman car “Nutmeg State” is photographed here on an eastbound Montauk parlor car train as it passes through the station at Bay Shore at speed on a summer’s day in 1969. Ahead of it can be seen two LIRR heavyweight parlor cars. The “Nutmeg State” was only a “guest” and was not retained as a regular member of the new lightweight fleet. (Jules P. Krzenski photo)
p92, #150
Replacing the “Jamaica” at the rear of the “Cannonball,” open-end observation car #2038, named “Setauket” is seen laying up at Montauk in 1962 displaying the “Cannonball” drumhead. A product of American Car and Foundry in 1912, the class P73L car served on several roads before LIRR service and, in 1971, was renumbered #99:2 and renamed “Jamaica”:2 when the original “Jamaica” was retired. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p93 – Chapter Six
The largest locomotive maintenance and repair facility for the LIRR was the Morris Park Locomotive Shops. Located just south of the Montauk branch, between the Morris Park and Dunton stations on the Atlantic branch, it was opened on November 1, 1889 and remained the major maintenance facility and heart of the railroad for many years.
The track layout changed occasionally over the years to accommodate functional requirements. Most of the original 1889 buildings were still standing during the years 1925 through 1975.
This facility consisted of the Maintenance of Equipment (M of E) general offices as well as an electric turntable, 23-stall brick roundhouse, wooden coaling and sanding tower (replaced in 1944 by a concrete structure), water tower, free-standing watering facilities for locomotives, bridge-borne watering facilities to water multiple locomotives at the same time, bridge-borne smoke “washers” (to answer the complaints of local residents), oil storage house, locomotive repair and machine shops, blacksmith and tinsmith shops, mill and upholstery rooms, air brake rooms, battery house, Third Rail Department offices, transfer tables, passenger car shops, paint shops, truck shop and armature rooms, engine dispatcher’s office, engine inspector’s office, engine foreman’s office, power house, warehouse, functioning diner (in later years) and various switchman’s shanties. There were also storage tracks for steam locomotives and a separate area for storage of DD1 electric locomotives. Later, these tracks would continue to serve as storage for the diesel locomotive fleet.
p94, #151
Viewed from the Dunton station platform around 1925 is MP tower. Engineers picking up their locomotives and preparing to leave Morris Park Shops, seen at the far left, would be required to stop at MP for permission to leave and/or request permission to back into the Richmond Hill Storage Yard via the tunnels at right under the Montauk branch to pick up their passenger trains. (James V. Osborne photo)
p94, #152
G5s #34 is laying up near the Montauk branch embankment and is having some work done to its smokebox door by a shop worker in this eastward scene from August, 1939. In the background is Dunton tower at the left and Dunton station opposite. In the distance is the Sheffield Farms dairy plant. Dunton station would later be discontinued as a stop. (H. Forsythe Collection, David Keller archive)
p95, #153
Class A1 electric shop switcher #320 is sitting on one of the turntable “garden” tracks (the uncovered tracks radiating from the turntable) in 1946. This little locomotive would pull equipment all over the yard as well as into and out of buildings via the transfer tables and onto and off the turntable as needed. The building at the left housed the locomotive repair and machine shops. (W. J. Edwards photo)
p95, #154
Here is a head-on view from 1966 of the electric powered turntable used to access the various tracks leading from the turntable as well as the roundhouse, which can be seen in the back beyond the turntable pit. A gap was created by removing the center portion of the original 23-stall brick roundhouse, leaving two separated halves, the eastern-most of which was demolished some years earlier. (David Keller photo)
p96, #155
Looking west from the turntable in 1966 can be seen the outside wheel storage tracks in the foreground and the locomotive repair and machine shops in the background. The overhead door at the right is one of two that accessed the interior wheel storage via rail. An overhead crane rail is also visible in front of the building. (David Keller photo)
p96, #156
In this 1967 view looking northwest can be seen the building that housed the blacksmith and tinsmith shops. In the foreground can be seen one of the inspection pits sunk between the rails. In the right and center foreground, constructed of diamond plate is one of several fuel, oil and water loading racks for the diesel locomotives. (Dave Keller photo)
p97, #157
Located just southeast of the turntable is the oil house, seen here in 1966. The high dock platform is full of 55-gallon drums containing various types of oil. To the left is the old engine dispatcher’s office and looming overall in the center is the shops’ water tower. In the right background can be seen Dunton tower. (Dave Keller photo)
p97, #158
Looking north towards the Richmond Hill Storage yard in 1966 we see the building housing the locomotive repair and machine shops. In the foreground is the transfer table that would access the many tracks within the building. It was upon this table that shop switchers such as class A1 #320 would ride. It’s apparent that the ex-doorways visible at the near end of the building have been closed up. (David Keller photo)
p98, #159
Laying up alongside one of the old brick shop buildings and awaiting repair is PRR E3sd class #2999. Photographed in March, 1940, this 1906 locomotive is missing its pilot and the road number located under the cab window has been painted over. The tender has a full load of coal, however, so it is unknown how involved the repairs will be. (H. Forsythe collection, David Keller archive)
p98, #160
DD1 class electric locomotives #341 and 348 in Tichy color scheme are temporarily stored alongside the depressed tracks of the Atlantic branch at Morris Park shops on this gray, dreary winter’s day in January, 1952. In the foreground can be seen the concrete abutments and the top of the tunnel portal. Looming in the background is the three-story general office building housing the Maintenance of Equipment department. (David Keller archive)
p99, #161
Built in the Fall of 1944 as the replacement coaling tower, this structure became the sanding tower once LIRR steam service ended. During the diesel era, this tall, concrete structure would provide sand to the locomotives which was used to provide traction to their wheels. Looking east, a string of units is laying up on this Christmas day in 1971. In the foreground is an inspection pit. (David Keller photo)
p99, #162
It’s May, 1950 and the old standby G5s class locomotives are laying up in the background while the one-month old Fairbanks Morse demonstrator unit #4801 has arrived to be test-driven. This model CPA24-5 unit would be in LIRR service from May 1 to June 26, 1950. Shortly thereafter, the LIRR would purchase four of this model and eight of the CPA20-5 units, having liked what they saw. (Frank Zahn photo)
p100, #163
Class A1 electric shop switcher #320 is pushing a DD1 electric locomotive past the locomotive and machine shops towards the turntable in this c. 1946 scene. The engineer is wearing the typical LIRR-style cotton cap of hickory-striped crown and solid blue visor and band. The little switcher was built by Baldwin in November, 1926 and remained in active service until its retirement on December 23, 1958 (Wm. J. Brennan photo)
p100, #164
A1 switcher #320 is seen again, this time on the transfer table in front of the passenger car shop building in June, 1949. The scene is looking northwest. The transfer table is operated by an overhead electric line which was connected by trolley pole as can be seen above the engine at the right. This scene nicely displays the many old, wooden, double-doors. (George E. Votava photo)
p101, #165
Laying up alongside the roundhouse, with both a full head of steam and tender full of coal is PRR-leased Atlantic class E7s (4-4-2) #9820. Built by the Pennsy’s Juniata Shops in July, 1906 as a class E2b, it was later rebuilt to a class E7s. With 80” drivers it was a fast locomotive. Visible in this scene from March, 1937 are the water and coaling towers. (George E. Votava collection)
p101, #166
In this noon-time, broadside view of class C51sa switcher #262 taken in June, 1949, we are looking north with the roundhouse in the right background and the locomotive and machine shops in the left background. This engine, a product of Alco (Schenectady), was built in August, 1922. It had 56” drivers and its wheel arrangement of 0-8-0 allowed maneuverability for switching. It was retired in 1949. (George E. Votava photo)
p102, #167
There were many complaints from residents living near the Morris Park Shops about the constant smoke in the air from the idling locomotives laying up at any given time of day and night. As a result, the “smoke washer” was installed in 1914. Locomotives would be positioned under the stacks suspended from the support structure, the cones would be lowered and the sooty, black smoke would be “washed” by jets of steam. “Clean,” white smoke would blow out the top of the washer as the impurities would pour out the bottom. Curious, though, are the number of photos of the washer that never show the locomotives actually positioned under a stack! In this scene from about 1938, we are looking northwest towards the smoke washer. In the foreground is C51sa #265. Behind the engine is class H6sb #309. The smoke washer mechanism was removed in the spring of 1945 and the support bridge was demolished in July, 1946. (David Keller archive)
p103, #168
It’s late in the day in June, 1939 and G5s #32 is back-lit with sunlight peeking from under the 1911-era wooden coaling tower at Morris Park Shops. The view is looking northwest. In the foreground, the railroad ties and ground are well-covered with many layers of oil that has dripped from the engines laying up on these tracks for decades. (H. Forsythe collection, David Keller archive)
p103, #169
It’s around 1949 and we are looking westward. G5s #20 is on one of the tracks which go under the “new” coal dock. In the background from left to right are the M of E office building, warehouse number 1, the power plant with twin stacks and, peeking out from behind the locomotive, the blacksmith shop. The locomotive and machine shops are at the right. (David Keller archive)
p104, #170
G5s #28 is under repair in this scene from April, 1946. Looking northwest we see the twin stacks of the power plant, the blacksmith shop, a Pennsylvania Railroad tender visible behind the tender of #28 and the boom of a rail crane with clamshell bucket at the right. In the foreground, the Atlantic branch tracks are preparing to enter and exit the tunnel under Atlantic Avenue. (H. Forsythe collection)
p104, #171
Alco RS3 #1554 is under repair in the locomotive shop in this scene from a 1966 special invitation “open-house” held at the Morris Park Shops. The RS3’s louvers and cowling have all been removed on both the long and short noses, baring the whole inside of the unit. Hoisting and/or towing cables are hanging from the riveted steel column at the right. (Norman Keller photo)
p105, #172
Here’s a typical scene at Morris Park Shops from the steam era. Looking west in August, 1938 we see G5s #43 laying up in the foreground. At the left is the fence paralleling the Atlantic branch, and behind #43 is a free-standing water plug as well as the watering bridge with suspended spouts. Beyond that is a row of locomotives laying up under the smoke washer bridge and in the background is the old, wooden, coaling tower with conveyors and main water tower beyond. The line-up of equipment from left to right consists of a class DD1 electric locomotive in the distance followed by steam classes H6sb, G5s, C51sa and two more G5s class engines. The third rail in the foreground was to provide power to the DD1 locomotives that were stored along the fence at this time. (William Lichtenstern photo)
p106, #173
Freight consolidation class H6sb (2-8-0) #310 is laying up on one of the turntable “garden” tracks at Morris Park Shops in this scene from August, 1939. This sturdy locomotive was built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1906 and had 56” drivers. Originally owned by the Pennsylvania Railroad and numbered #3571 it was acquired by the LIRR in 1916 and renumbered. It was retired in April, 1948. (David Keller archive)
p106, #174
Apparently fresh from the paint shop, H10s (2-8-0) #102 sits on one of the turntable “garden” tracks in this Morris Park Shops scene from August, 1939. Looking east we see the smoke washer at the right. Originally built by and for the Pennsylvania Railroad in 1913, #102 had 62” drivers and was numbered #7174. It was acquired and renumbered by the LIRR and retired in December, 1948 (H. Forsythe collection)
p107, #175
Still sporting classification lights atop the smokebox, G5s #47 is laying up in front of the old, wooden, coaling tower at Morris Park Shops in March, 1940. Visible are the conveyor to the top of the tower as well as the Montauk branch embankment in the background. Built by the PRR’s Juniata shops in 1929, #47 had 68” drivers and was retired in August, 1951. (David Keller archive)
p107, #176
Sitting on the cross track in front of the Morris Park blacksmith shop, PRR K4s #7938 has just obtained a full load of coal and is now having a drink at the free-standing water plug in this view looking west in June, 1949. Built by the Pennsylvania Railroad in September, 1918, this Pacific-class locomotive had 80” drivers and was scrapped in March, 1950 (George E. Votava photo)
p108, #177
It is August, 1939 and newly pinstriped DD1 electric locomotives #341 and #343 are seen parked on the DD1 layup track at Morris Park Shops when it was located alongside the Atlantic branch, separated only by a chain link fence. Third rail was run along this perimeter track to power these locomotives. In 1944 a new DD1 layup yard was placed in service alongside the Montauk branch embankment. (David Keller archive)
p108, #178
Here is a view looking east in the newer DD1 layup yard at Morris Park Shops around 1946. Looking through the morning haze we see the Montauk branch embankment at the left, a LIRR keystone logo on the open front door of the nearest DD1, an idler, or “reach” car coupled to the DD1 in the center, more DD1s laying up and the water tower at the right. (Bob Lorenz photo)
p109, #179
MU car #2618 has been pulled into the passenger car shop and has had its seats removed, possibly to have them recovered in the upholstery shop. Temporary lighting has been strung along the ceiling of the car in this view photographed in 1966. Built by Pullman-Standard in 1955, this car was classed MP72C and as such was a motor car with cab controls. (David Keller archive)
p109, #180
Fairbanks-Morse model CPA24-5 #2401 appears to have its lower portion sprayed with some sort of lube as it sits over a maintenance pit in the gap between the two halves of the old brick roundhouse in this August, 1958 view. In the foreground is another pit, with track continuing towards the old electric yard behind the shops. In the background, oil drums are visible at the oil house. (David Keller archive)
P110- p111, #181
Standing on the Montauk branch embankment and looking southwest, the photographer has captured a panorama of the Morris Park Shops. At the far left is Atlantic Avenue and a G5s locomotive releasing steam. Behind it are a bunch of PRR K4s locomotives. All the engines have just been coaled by the newer coaling tower behind. It is July, 1950: only one year before the leased Pennsy units will go permanently back to the parent road. To the right of the locomotives can be seen boxcab #402. In the center background are the stacks of the power house and in the center foreground, the water tower and roundhouse. To the right can be seen the DD1 layup tracks filled with electric locomotives in a mix of both Tichy color scheme and 1939-era pinstripes. In the right background are the locomotive and machine shops. (George E. Votava photo)
p112, #182
It’s a dreary, chilly day in May, 1970 and the engineer is relaxing on his armrest as a worker in winter hat and sweatshirt waters and fuels ALCO C420 #218. The huge diesel fuel storage tanks are seen between the front and rear trucks. The view is looking north with the locomotive shops at the left and the stairs for the sanding tower at the right. (F. R. Kern photo)
p112, #183
Looking northwest towards Morris Park Shops and the Montauk branch embankment in the background, ALCO units C420 #213 and RS3 #1557 can be seen laying up on this January day in 1966. In the foreground is a switchman’s shanty and to the right of it are some ex-express cars converted to Maintenance-of-Way use. More C420 units are visible at the far left. (Bob Yanosey photo)
p113– Chapter Seven
"Down by the depot" was an expression folks commonly used. Many towns had their own depot, whether it be a combination freight and passenger structure, or separate stand alone passenger and freight buildings as needed. Following a few common designs and occasionally throwing in some unique ones, each depot was built based on funds available and the needs of both the railroad and the towns they served. In some cases depot size and style were based upon the generosity of a wealthy family residing in that town.
Depots handled the receipt and shipment of express, baggage, U.S. Mail, LCL (less than carload) freight shipments and even entire car loads of goods as dictated by the customers served. Additionally, many depots served as the local gathering place for both adults and children alike to catch a glimpse of the local trains, catch up on the news of the day, weigh themselves on the ubiquitous “depot scale,” send a telegraphic message or two, or use the pay telephone service.
Also of extreme importance were the interlocking towers and cabins. In addition to the depots, they provided manually issued, hard-copy "train orders" that controlled the movement of the trains. Some of these towers survive to this day and provide interlocking of tracks and signals on the various branches they serve. The LIRR is one of the few remaining Class 1 railroads that still operate in this fashion of years gone by.
p114, #184
It’s a cold winter’s day in December, 1970 and the Kew Gardens station in Queens is seen here viewed northwest. The depot is lightly dusted with snow as are the safety boards covering the third rails. This pretty little depot was opened on September 8, 1910 after the Maple Grove track realignment and originally named Kew. It was renamed Kew Gardens after 1914. (David Keller photo)
p114, #185
Fairbanks-Morse model CPA24-5 (“C-Liner”) #2401 is headed eastbound on the Main Line at B tower, Bethpage junction, during the summer of 1952. The engineer’s arm is outstretched to receive his orders from the “Y” stick of the block operator on the ground. This tower was placed in service in May, 1936, to replace a wooden one demolished for the construction of the Bethpage State Parkway. (Jules P. Krzenski photo)
p115, #186
When the Jamaica station was elevated and moved westward in 1913, the LIRR opened another station at the old site to appease the inconvenienced residents. Shown here is that station at Union Hall Street looking west from New York Avenue on December 16, 1929, prior to its elevation during the Jamaica Improvement East project the following year. Some construction is already underway at the far left. (David Keller archive)
p115, #187
It’s a dreary Christmas day in 1971 and we’re looking southeast at street level towards the rear of the westbound platform of the elevated Union Hall Street station in Jamaica. The bay window cantilevering out over the tunnel once housed the ticket office. This structure was elevated in 1930 as part of the Jamaica Improvement East project. (David Keller photo)
p116, #188
Another portion of the Jamaica Improvement East project was elevating the tracks and providing new, high-level platforms at the Hillside station, located just east of Union Hall Street. The depot is shown here with new bridge and stairs to access the new platforms in February, 1931. The depot was built in 1911 and the agency closed years later. Hillside was discontinued as a station stop in 1966. (David Keller archive)
p116, #189
Built to service the employees of Republic Aviation in Farmingdale, the Republic station, viewed looking east in September, 1970, was opened in December, 1940 just east of the present-day Route 110 underpass. Consisting of low platforms, electric light posts and wooden shelter sheds, the station would last until the 1980s. (David Keller photo)
p117, #190
Here is Mineola junction viewed eastward from the Mineola Boulevard overpass in 1966. In this scene, from left to right, are the tracks of the Oyster Bay branch curving to the left, the section shanty beyond, the tracks of the Main Line straight ahead, Nassau tower trackside, the LIRR’s brick electric substation behind the tower and the freight-only tracks curving off to the right towards Garden City. (David Keller photo)
p118, #191
An example of the LIRR’s attempt at streamlining in the mid-1960s is shown here at Holbrook. Many depot buildings without agencies were razed as “maintenance-intensive” and were replaced by this style metal shelter shed. This view is looking east from the crushed cinder platform towards the Coates Avenue crossing in May, 1970. (David Keller photo)
p118, #192
This view of the ticket-block office at Central Islip was photographed around 1935. At the left is the ticket counter with rubber stamps on the wall. Center is the operator’s desk built into the bay window. Visible are the “Y” order sticks, table block machine and dispatcher’s flexi-phone. At the right is the agent’s desk. Fly-paper traps hang at the windows. (George G. Ayling photo)
p119, #193
While this photo of Ronkonkoma was shot in 1915 from the new Ronkonkoma Avenue trestle, little had changed in the 1920s and 30s until the depot burned in 1934. Visible is the landscaping funded by Maude Adams, Broadway star and resident of this town. In the foreground is the express platform and scale. In the distance is the eastbound express house, freight house and water tower. (Thomas R. Bayles photo)
p119, #194
It’s 1940 and the trees have grown at Ronkonkoma. Looking east from the Ronkonkoma Avenue trestle, the new, 1937 depot is just visible at the left as is the express and freight houses. In the distance at right trackside is the water plug and KO cabin. At the left is a G5s locomotive pulling its train from the yard. The water tower is hidden behind the trees. (T. Sommer photo)
p120, #195
In April, 1940, the days of the old Medford depot were numbered. The 1889 structure would soon be demolished during the grade elimination of Route 112. At the left are the baggage wagon and the MD block limit station signals. A crated item awaits the next express car. On the telephone pole is the T-box housing the LIRR’s magneto phone. Old rails serve as platform bumpers. (Albert E. Bayles photo)
p120, #196
Shot from almost the same angle, the elevated Medford station, opened in November, 1940, is photographed in September, 1958 at the end of its agency. The brick structure with express office at ground level would be severely vandalized and demolished in 1964, leaving the lower portion with windows blocked-up to stand for another 30 years. (Irving Solomon photo)
p121, #197
A rear view of the elevated Medford station shows both the ticket office and waiting room at the upper level and the express office at the lower level. At the right is the beginning of the express ramp up to track level. Photographed in 1960, the agency was already closed for two years, however it appears that there was still life in the express office. (Thomas R. Bayles photo)
p121, #198
Manorville was the junction of the Main Line with the tracks that connected to the Montauk branch at Eastport. Controlling this junction was MR cabin, depicted here looking east around 1925 with block operator James V. Osborne. In the distance are the Manorville depot, water tower and tracks curving off to Eastport. Opened in August, 1916, the cabin was removed along with the junction and wooden depot in 1949. (David Keller archive)
p122, #199
It’s 1952 and we’re looking east along the Main Line from in front of Nassau tower in Mineola. In the foreground is the old-style planked crossing of Main Street. The tracks curving off to the left are headed towards Oyster Bay and in the middle of the junction is the old section shanty. Beyond the shanty is the Knickerbocker Ice Company, a once-frequent sight on Long Island. (J. P. Sommer photo)
p122, #200
When the old Port tower east of Freeport was placed out of service in May, 1959 due to the elevation of the tracks in the grade elimination project, a newer, brick structure replaced it. Placed in service on October 11, 1960, it was located on the north side of the tracks and east of the Freeport station. It was placed out of service on May 16, 1983. (David Keller photo)
p123, #201
A typical structure along the right-of-way was the mail crane. Found at all stations where an agency was located, the crane would be pulled down and the mailbag of the U.S. Postal Service attached. An RPO (Railway Post Office) car would come along, at speed as in this scene at Central Islip around 1930, and, with doorway bar swung out and locked in place, would yank the mailbag off the crane. The mail would then be sorted along the route by postal clerks. The mailbag would be tossed off the moving train as well. A small, trackside slat fence was usually constructed to prevent the bag, after bouncing upon impact, from going back under the wheels of the train. (George G. Ayling photo)
p124, #202
It’s September 20, 1958 and the LIRR is preparing to close the agency at the 1882 Bellport depot. Looking southwest, Irving Solomon has photographed the structure for the Public Service Commission. The agency would end in January, 1959. Visible are signs for the American Telephone & Telegraph, Western Union and Railway Express Agency as well as a U. S. mailbox under the covered platform, indicating a once-busy agency. The depot was razed on 9/22/60.
p124, #203
Photographed in 1955 the tiny Mastic depot sits on the northeast side of Mastic Road. Opened in 1882 as “Forge”, it was renamed with the town in 1893. (The telegraphic call of the block signal remained “F” years later.) Mastic was discontinued as a station stop when the agency moved west to the newly opened Mastic-Shirley station in July, 1960. The old depot was razed one month later. (Rolf H. Schneider photo)
p125, #204
Originally built as the Moriches station on the Sag Harbor branch in March, 1870, this depot was moved eastward to this site on the Montauk branch the night of October 18, 1881 and became the Eastport station. It appears the agent’s bay was remodeled into a freight office some years later. Photographed in September, 1958, the stop was about to be discontinued. The depot was sold and relocated in 1959. (Irving Solomon photo)
p125, #205
Replacing the original station destroyed by fire in 1910, the second Amagansett depot is pictured here looking southwest in September, 1958 when the agency was about to close. In June, 1942, Nazi spies, offloaded by U-boat off shore, caught the train from here to head into Manhattan. They were later arrested when their spy network was exposed. This beautiful depot was razed in August, 1964. (Irving Solomon photo)
p126, #206
The Eastport end of the Manorville-Eastport branch is depicted here looking west from the signal mast around 1925. Looking straight up the Manorville branch, we have PT cabin at the left, the Montauk branch curving off to the left beyond the cabin and a section shanty opposite PT. The site of the original Moriches station was just past the very last telegraph pole on the right seen in the distance. Placed in service in 1916, PT was opened summers only after January, 1933, and was placed out of service in September, 1942. The cabin was removed by 1949 along with the junction. (James V. Osborne photo)
p127, #207
CN tower, located atop a signal bridge on the Atlantic branch just west of Railroad (Autumn) Avenue in East New York is shown in this c. 1925 view looking west. CN stood for Chestnut Street Junction, the designation dating back to the period of joint operations between the LIRR and the Brooklyn Rapid Transit. In service in 1922, this tower was later renamed Autumn and lasted until 1928. (James V. Osborne photo)
p127, #208
WT tower along the Atlantic branch controlled Woodhaven Junction when the tracks were at grade. Looking east around 1925, the Atlantic branch tracks are at the left behind the picket fence. The depot is partially visible to the right of the tower behind the cars and the tracks to the Rockaway Beach branch curve off to the right. A stubby crossing gate protects the station parking lot. (James V. Osborne, photo)
p128, #209
The Wading River extension was only a recent memory when this photo was taken in 1939. The last revenue train ran October 9, 1938, the tracks were removed shortly thereafter and now a demolition crew is removing the Miller Place Road 1895 wooden trestle from over the right-of-way east of the former Miller’s Place station site. The remaining wooden ties will soon be the only evidence of rail activity east of Port Jefferson. (Albert E. Bayles photo)
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